15055, Lawrence, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15055, Lawrence, Pennsylvania is 93 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.61 percent of the residents in 15055 has some form of health insurance. 44.83 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.07 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase. Military veterans should know that percent of the residents in the ZIP Code of 15055 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 83 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15055. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 437 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 9,389 health care providers accessible to residents in 15055, Lawrence, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 15055 & Primary Care in Lawrence

This analysis examines the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 15055, focusing on primary care availability and its implications for lung cancer screening and care. We will assess physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, evaluate telemedicine adoption, and explore the availability of mental health resources, all factors impacting the quality of care for individuals at risk or diagnosed with lung cancer. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare environment in Lawrence, Pennsylvania, and its suitability for lung cancer management.

Lawrence, Pennsylvania, falls under the ZIP Code 15055. The initial step involves understanding the physician-to-patient ratio within this area. This metric is crucial. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of physicians, can lead to delayed appointments, reduced screening opportunities, and overall diminished access to care. Conversely, a high ratio suggests better access, potentially facilitating earlier diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer. Publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health will be crucial for determining this ratio. The analysis will need to consider the number of primary care physicians, pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiologists practicing within the ZIP Code and the estimated population.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. The analysis will seek to identify standout practices within 15055. This involves examining factors such as patient reviews, accreditation by organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), and the availability of comprehensive services. Practices that offer extended hours, same-day appointments, and robust patient education programs are likely to score higher. Furthermore, the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) and their interoperability with other healthcare providers is a critical factor in coordinating care, especially for complex conditions like lung cancer.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical aspect of the analysis. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the use of telehealth, and its continued prevalence is vital for patients in rural or underserved areas. The analysis will assess which practices in 15055 offer telemedicine services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals. The availability of telemedicine can improve access to care, reduce travel burdens, and facilitate timely follow-up appointments, all of which are beneficial for lung cancer patients. The analysis will also consider the types of telemedicine services offered, the ease of use for patients, and the availability of technical support.

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment often involve significant emotional and psychological challenges. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial element of this analysis. The investigation will explore whether primary care practices in 15055 have integrated mental health services, such as on-site therapists or partnerships with mental health professionals. The analysis will also examine the availability of resources like support groups, counseling services, and access to psychiatric care. Early detection and treatment are key to successful outcomes.

Specifically, the analysis will consider the availability of lung cancer screening programs, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans. The analysis will determine which practices offer these screenings, the eligibility criteria they use, and the referral pathways for patients who meet the screening criteria. The analysis will also evaluate the practice's adherence to national guidelines for lung cancer screening, such as those recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF).

Furthermore, the analysis will consider the availability of specialized lung cancer care within the region. This includes access to pulmonologists, oncologists, radiation oncologists, and thoracic surgeons. The analysis will assess the proximity of these specialists to primary care practices in 15055 and the ease with which patients can be referred to them. The analysis will also evaluate the availability of multidisciplinary cancer care teams, which are known to improve patient outcomes.

The analysis will also consider the availability of palliative care services, which are essential for managing symptoms and improving the quality of life for patients with advanced lung cancer. The analysis will determine whether palliative care services are offered within the primary care practices or through partnerships with other healthcare providers. The analysis will also evaluate the practice's approach to end-of-life care, including advance care planning and hospice services.

The analysis will also consider the socioeconomic factors that impact access to care in 15055. This includes the percentage of residents who are uninsured or underinsured, the availability of transportation to healthcare facilities, and the level of health literacy among the population. The analysis will also assess the practice's efforts to address health disparities and ensure that all patients have equal access to care.

The final Lung Cancer Score will be a composite metric, reflecting the various factors discussed above. The score will be presented in a clear and concise format, allowing residents of 15055 to easily understand the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in their area. The score will also be used to identify areas for improvement and to inform efforts to enhance the quality of lung cancer care in Lawrence, Pennsylvania.

The findings of this analysis will provide valuable insights into the healthcare environment in 15055 and its suitability for lung cancer management. This will allow residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare and to advocate for improvements in the quality of care in their community. The analysis will also provide valuable information for healthcare providers, policymakers, and other stakeholders who are working to improve lung cancer outcomes.

To further explore the healthcare landscape in Lawrence, Pennsylvania, and visualize the data discussed in this analysis, we recommend utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive mapping tools that can help visualize physician distribution, access to care, and other relevant healthcare data. Explore the power of spatial analysis and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment in your community.